Oilers’ Goals Reversed in OT Loss Against Blues: A Closer Analysis
The Edmonton Oilers faced a frustrating defeat in an overtime loss against the St. Louis Blues on Monday. While the Oilers expressed their disapproval diplomatically, it was evident that they were questioning the outcome due to three goal reviews that went against them. These reviews had a significant impact on the game and left the Oilers wondering about the fairness of the result.
The first disallowed goal occurred when Ryan Nugent-Hopkins appeared to score at 6:11 of the second period, which would have given the Oilers a 2-0 lead. However, the Blues challenged for goaltender interference, and the goal was overturned. The NHL determined that Zach Hyman’s contact with Jordan Binnington’s right shoulder impaired the goaltender’s ability to play his position in the crease prior to Nugent-Hopkins’ goal.
Just 2:04 later, with the Blues on a power play, captain Brayden Schenn scored to tie the game. However, Oilers goalie Stuart Skinner immediately indicated that Blues winger Alexey Toropchenko interfered with his blocker and right pad. Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch challenged the call but was unsuccessful. The overhead angle showed that Toropchenko’s stick made contact with Skinner’s pad with enough force to briefly bend the stick. Despite Skinner’s frustration, the referee’s explanation was that Toropchenko was not intentionally interfering but rather attempting to get a tip-in goal.
The unsuccessful challenge by the Oilers resulted in them being short-handed when Schenn scored his second goal of the game at 1:44 of the third period, giving the Blues their first lead. The Oilers fought back, with Leon Draisaitl assisting McDavid for a goal at 14:35. This tied the game and secured the Oilers a point. However, in overtime, a mistake by Ryan McLeod and Mattias Ekholm allowed Brandon Saad of the Blues to score on a breakaway, ending the game in favor of St. Louis.
The disallowed goals and missed opportunities had a significant impact on the Oilers’ momentum and offensive flow. The penalties they took in the second period further hindered their ability to build something and regain control of the game. Despite their efforts, the Oilers were unable to secure a second point and now find themselves five points behind the Vancouver Canucks for the Pacific Division lead.
In addition to the disallowed goals, the Oilers also had a goal waved off when Evander Kane deflected a shot in with a high stick. This extended Kane’s goalless drought to 19 games.
Despite the frustrations and setbacks, the Oilers showed maturity and resilience in their comeback efforts. They have nine games left on their schedule to make up ground in the standings and secure a playoff spot.
In conclusion, the Edmonton Oilers’ recent game against the St. Louis Blues was filled with controversial goal reviews and missed opportunities. The disallowed goals and penalties affected their momentum, but they demonstrated resilience in their comeback efforts. With a few adjustments and a strong finish to the season, the Oilers still have a chance to make a push for the playoffs.